Measures to be taken for the Development of the Tourism Industry

 

 

It is no secret that a large number of tourists come to enjoy the natural beauty of Sri Lanka. But it is worth considering whether the infrastructure facilities, safe environment, as well as the various activities that provide a refreshing experience to the tourists are provided adequately of this beautiful destination.  Although, Sri Lanka claims 8 World Heritage Sites it remains to be seen whether it will benefit adequately. A tourist landing in Sri Lanka takes more than 5 to 6 hours to reach this major attractions in the country. The need to build a few domestic airports and expedite the anticipated refurbishment of existing domestic airports will give tourists greater flexibility and convenience in getting about. Also if we increase the number of seaplane flights available for some destinations, it will become more appealing not only to foreign tourists, but also to locals.

To the Tourists have to spend some money to visit some places that have tourism value.  There needs to be some methodology to determine the prices. Otherwise, arbitrarily charging unreasonable rates could lead to a decrease in tourist arrivals.  Infrastructure in these areas needs to be developed expeditiously with government intervention.  There is no institutional set up in some tourist destinations to facilitate the youths to acquire technical and vocational education to join with the labour force in the tourism sector. The establishment of technical and professional bodies will be beneficial to the industry to acquire a highly skilled service oriented workforce to participate in the tourism sector. In some areas that are frequent by tourists, there is no proper sewerage system and wastewater system.  The absence of a properly established waste water and sewerage system in those areas, which pollutes the urban environment and creates an unhealthy atmosphere. Also access to the common internet and telecommunication facilities are limited in some tourist areas.  In order to develop the tourism industry, it is necessary to pay more attention to such issues and address them.

The World Health Organization defines wellness as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. Wellness tourism is a new concept and a fledgling industry in Sri Lanka.  Country's traditions of Ayurveda and traditional medicine give the sector a distinct competitive advantage. The industry's key services include Ayurveda resorts, spas, and yoga retreats, which are all popular choices. There are two segments, global travellers who come there for cheaper medical service and other travellers from developed countries who seek preventive treatments to develop their personal and mental wellbeing. Post COVID-19, more and more healthy travelers are looking for destinations that offer them products and experiences that they can do to relax and enhance their well-being during their trip.  Unlike the average tourist, the wellness traveller is discriminate and demands better service for which it willingly pays. Therefore, it is possible to attract more tourists by providing more facilities and focusing more on the wellness tourism industry to get the most out of this opportunity. To develop the wellness tourism, strong and highly coordinated public–private sector collaboration is absolutely essential.  The government should support the production of Ayurveda beauty products and supplements and export them to the global market. I feel that this can be further popularized among tourists by creating a wellness triangle (like a cultural triangle) by connecting places specialized and associated with wellness providing the necessaryknowledge and facilities.